HC Deb 19 June 1924 vol 174 cc2297-8
20. Lieut.-Colonel Sir F. HALL

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to the revised statutes proposed to be enforced by the Communist International and which provide, inter alia, that all affiliated Communist parties must be prepared to carry on their work illegally, and for the executive committee of the Communist International to assist the parties in the preparations for illegal work, and to see to it that the work is carried out; and if he will state whether, in view of this adoption by the Communist party of a policy of deliberate lawlessness, the police authorities will be given a free hand to continue their oversight upon Communist meetings in this country?

Mr. HENDERSON

I have noted the conclusions arrived at by the "Communist International," and they will be borne in mind in connection with Communist activities in this country.

Sir F. HALL

Will the light hon. Gentleman answer the words in the last part of the question?

Mr. HENDERSON

I have nothing to add.

Sir F. HALL

Are we to understand that it is the intention of the Government to subscribe to the suggestion made in this question?

Mr. HENDERSON

The hon. Member must not understand anything of the kind, because it would be a wrong understanding.

Mr. W. THORNE

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that if these people are left alone they will die a natural death?